Lake Ice Is Dangerous

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Tuttle Creek Lake, has issued a news release involving icy conditions and ice safety.

Tuttle Creek Lake has a cover of ice on it that may look inviting, but there is no such thing as 100% safe ice. The thickness of ice of the lake depends on depth, water currents and springs, and natural objects such as tree stumps and rocks.

Daily changes in temperature cause the ice to expand and contract, which impacts its strength. Because of these factors, no one can declare the ice to be absolutely safe. Some iced-in areas are thinner than others, and appearance alone is a poor indicator as to whether it is “safe” or not.

If you are going to be out around the lake for any reason, use common sense and practice ice safety. Never venture out on the ice alone, be prepared for unexpected breakthroughs, carry large nails or spikes to get a grip on ice if you do go through, and always wear a life jacket when on the ice.

According to Tuttle Creek officials, “the only safe ice is at a skating arena!”